Diddy Trial Nears Conclusion as Both Sides Rest Cases; Closing Arguments Set for Thursday

NEW YORK – The high-profile federal trial against hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has moved closer to its conclusion, with both the prosecution and defense resting their cases in Lower Manhattan Federal Court. After seven weeks of proceedings, the jury is now set to hear closing arguments beginning Thursday at 9 a.m. Federal prosecutors concluded their presentation after calling 34 witnesses and introducing over 1,000 pieces of evidence. Among the evidence presented were voice notes from Combs himself, played in court. Prosecutors have sought to paint a picture of a criminal enterprise, alleging Combs used it to coerce, traffic, and transport alleged victims, with accusations spanning kidnapping, narcotics, prostitution, arson, bribery, and sex trafficking. The defense, representing Sean Combs, maintained his innocence throughout the trial and chose not to call any witnesses. Combs' attorneys are reportedly confident they have raised sufficient doubt among the jurors, suggesting that the prosecution's case amounts to "ex-girlfriends complaining about regretful sex." Among the key testimonies heard during the trial were those from three alleged victims, seven former Combs employees, four hotel workers, two celebrities, and two male escorts, identified as "The Punisher" and Daniel Philip. The extensive testimony and evidence collection occurred over 28 days of court proceedings. In a related development during the trial, star witness Cassie Ventura welcomed her third child with husband Alex Fine. The judge also dismissed one juror for a lack of candor during the process. Closing arguments will commence with the government, followed by the defense, and then a government rebuttal. The closing statements are expected to extend into Friday, after which the case will be handed to a jury composed of eight men and four women for deliberation.